What a charming city! My husband and I visited the Low Country over a long weekend in January 2019. Other than rain the first day, the weather was pleasantly comfortable in the 70s and sunny. Due to the relatively small size of the city where most people would wander, we decided not to rent a car. It was more economical to use Uber, which for us only included 4 trips (to and from the airport and our ride to a plantation). We left about 4:30 in the morning for our return trip home and had no trouble getting an Uber driver. Charleston’s airport is similar in size to Syracuse Hancock. So for those less adventurous, this is easy to navigate and not like other airports which are built like cities themselves.
The city is flat and easily walkable with many sights centralized. King Street is the popular place for upscale shopping with luxury designers and unique boutiques. A carriage ride is a popular attraction and one should definitely consider booking this. There are 3 main carriage companies: Old South Carriage Company, Palmetto Carriage Works and Charleston Carriage Works. Most tours run for about 30 minutes as you tour the beautiful town and the operators have a wealth of history to share. Prices are generally the same among the 3 companies, $40-50 for children and adults (private tours are also available). I don’t remember what company we used, but they had a lottery system, so each of their carriages are not all doing the same route. This prevents congestion along the ride. We were fortunate to see “Rainbow Row” on our tour. I don’t believe there would be any dissatisfied customers regardless of what tour they did, the homes are absolutely stunning, big or small. There is a lot of history, some of it horrifying as many people suffered and died for the advancement of others. But it is good to educate ourselves on all events that shaped our country.
When I think of the South, my mind almost always pictures a big plantation home. Charleston does not disappoint, there are several to choose from. The most popular are Boone Hall (from The Notebook), Middleton Place, Magnolia and Drayton Hall. Most of them are open everyday from 9am-5pm, but check the hours before you plan on visiting. Funny story, we went on a Sunday and I didn’t realize Boone Hall didn’t open till 12pm. So the Uber driver brought us back to our hotel. We waited a few hours and to my husband’s delight, we went back to the plantation. Just kidding, I was delighted. He was not. But he was a good sport, knowing that I absolutely The Notebook and have probably watched it 39 times.
As far as where to stay, this is a tough choice! There are many spectacular boutique hotels, which I must admit, are my absolute favorite. Now there are Hampton, Courtyard, Embassy, etc. But I’m sorry, this is one city I think you should splurge if your budget allows, because you are in Charleston. Think of the money you’ll save not renting a car! These buildings and homes have stunning architectural details, amazing amenities and usually substantial breakfasts included. We stayed at Zero George and it did not disappoint. Our room was decorated so beautifully and had plantation shutters on the inside windows which I adore. The rainfall shower was spacious. There was a Miele coffee maker in each room along with Izze Seltzers that were complimentary. I wanted to live there permanently. Their breakfast was amazing, but all I remember were the Callie’s Hot Biscuits they had each day. Dinner is also available, but we decided to venture out for those meals. The staff here was a true representation of Southern hospitality. http://zerogeorge.com
Now let’s talk about food. Charleston has become quite the foodie paradise. There are plenty of options in cuisine and price. It is always a good idea to make reservations, so look ahead to where you might want to go, and make the call. Especially if you’re only going to be there for a few days, you don’t want to miss out! We had traditional barbecue at Poogan’s Smokehouse. I can still taste the cornbread in the mini cast iron cooked in bacon fat, yum. They are open Monday-Sunday, 11am-9pm. http://www.pooganssmokehouse.com There is also Poogan’s Porch, where they have breakfast on the menu as well. We didn’t eat there, but I’m sure it is incredible. I wanted to have Southern biscuits and fried chicken at some point on our trip. In true fashion, I did my research. I found Hominy Grill, which sadly is now closed, but they sell some of their items online. It was a perfect union of fried chicken, a warm biscuit and some gravy. Trust me, it was as delicious as it sounds. I know your mouth is watering. I took a slice of coconut cake back to the hotel to snack on later (don’t you just love Southern food?!). I heard from someone who ate at Peninsula Grill, and had their Ultimate coconut cake. It is supposed to be amazing, but has a hefty price tag, as this is a fine dining establishment. http://peninsulagrill.com These are just a couple of the restaurants that were so memorable, they are worth mentioning. Get outside of your comfort zone and always try the local cuisine wherever your travels may take you. I have never been sorry eating authentic food, it’s all part of the adventure.
So if you’re looking to get away, even just for a few days, I would consider Charleston. As mentioned, there is amazing food, shopping, and history. There are also beaches nearby if you’re going when the weather is warmer. There is plenty to do for everyone in your party. For me, this will definitely be a place I will visit again. I think it makes a great girls’ trip, romantic getaway or fun for the family. Bless your heart…
